About the song
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is a timeless classic by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by the band’s lead vocalist and songwriter, John Fogerty. Released as a single in 1971 from their album *Pendulum* (1970), this song quickly garnered international acclaim. In Canada, it soared to the top of the RPM 100 national singles chart in March 1971, marking a significant achievement for the band. In the United States, it reached a peak position of number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, while on the Cash Box pop chart, it achieved an impressive number three. Across the Atlantic, it climbed to number 36 on the UK charts, further solidifying its global impact. “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” became Creedence Clearwater Revival’s eighth gold-selling single, a testament to its widespread popularity and enduring appeal.
The song’s appeal has only grown over time. Remarkably, in March 2023, it surpassed one billion streams on Spotify, highlighting its continued relevance and resonance with listeners across generations. Cash Box praised the track, noting that it was “as close to a ballad as anything from CCR,” underscoring the song’s unique place within the band’s repertoire.
John Fogerty has kept the song alive through various live performances and recordings. In 2005, he released a live version on his DVD *The Long Road Home – In Concert*, recorded at the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, California, on September 15 of that year. This performance captured the raw emotion and energy of the original, delighting fans and newcomers alike.
To celebrate the band’s 50th anniversary, a music video for “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” was released on December 11, 2018. This visual tribute reintroduced the song to a new generation, reinforcing its status as a rock anthem.
In 2013, John Fogerty revisited the song on his album *Wrote a Song for Everyone*, featuring a new recording with country music star Alan Jackson. This collaboration blended the distinctive styles of Fogerty and Jackson, bringing a fresh perspective to the classic tune.
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” continues to be a beloved song, cherished for its poignant lyrics and melodic simplicity. Its enduring popularity is a testament to John Fogerty’s songwriting prowess and Creedence Clearwater Revival’s lasting influence on rock music. The song’s exploration of melancholy and hope resonates deeply, making it a timeless piece that transcends eras and genres.
Video
Lyrics
Someone told me long ago
There’s a calm before the storm
I know
It’s been comin’ for some time
When it’s over, so they say
It’ll rain a sunny day
I know
Shinin’ down like water
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?
Yesterday, and days before
Sun is cold and rain is hard
I know
Been that way for all my time
‘Til forever, on it goes
Through the circle, fast and slow
I know
It can’t stop, I wonder
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?
Yeah
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know, have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?